----------------------- Message requiring your approval ---------------------- From: "Cindy Gallagher" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [ha-Safran]: Jewish-themed novel FAR ABOVE RUBIES
For Immediate Release
Maternal Instincts vs. Nazi War Machine NOVEL FILLS FEMININE VOID IN HOLOCAUST HISTORY
Far Above Rubies recounts true story of Dutch woman�s
heroic efforts to protect six stepchildren
CROWNSVILLE, MD - From the original Holocaust mini-series through hundreds of books and historical examinations, the Holocaust has been studied and artistically depicted perhaps more than almost any other human event. But the "Holocaust genre" � where art is mixed with fact � is largely devoid of powerful, heroic female protagonists.
That�s where Cynthia Polansky comes in.
Her breakout novel, Far Above Rubies, is based on the true story of a Dutch woman who refuses to allow the developing Nazi occupation to triumph over the human spirit. Caring for six stepdaughters, Sofie Rijnfeld � whom Polansky extensively researched � was faced with the ultimate decision when the children are called for deportation. Ignoring the obvious danger, she chose to accompany them, from Dutch transit camp to Auschwitz.
"I first heard about Sofie while attending a photographic exhibit, and then learned about her through a second-generation survivor�s stories," says Polansky. "I was immediately compelled to learn all I could about her because the story was teeming with incredible love, bravery, and heroism.
"People need to know who Sofie Rijnfeld was and what she did; not because it�s a Holocaust story, but because it�s a depiction of the ultimate human bond and the power of sheer love."
Polansky sees Far Above Rubies as offering a unique view of the Holocaust from the female perspective � something largely missing from Holocaust books and studies. Rather than uprising and revolution, ghetto battles and escapes, the book demonstrates the singular power of maternal instincts and human goodness.
"Sofie was a woman who didn�t simply survive and endure; she drew increasing strength and willpower from the circumstances she encountered," adds Polansky. "Just as Sofie surprised herself by her own decisions and strength, so too can anyone else."Cynthia Polansky is a professional freelance writer whose work has appeared in various publications and outlets. She is also a contributing author to Chicken Soup for the Volunteer�s Soul. Far Above Rubies is available for purchase at www.booklocker.com and other online booksellers, and can be ordered at any bookstore.
For more information, visit Polansky�s website at www.cynthiapolansky.com.
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